10 Things To Do in Nashville

Two of Nashville’s most iconic establishments, the Ryman Auditorium and the Grand Ole Opry have hosted thousands of artists over the past century, and chances are some of your favorite musicians have performed at one or both places. Both the Ryman and the Grand Ole Opry House offer daytime tours where you can sit in the dressing rooms and stand on the stages where everyone from Johnny Cash, Aretha Franklin, Bob Dylan, and Elvis have performed.

Along the tour, hear the fascinating history of The Ryman, which was originally built as a tabernacle in 1897 and became the home to the famous Grand Ole Opry in 1943, where it remained until 1974 when it moved to the Grand Ole Opry House. Today, it is one of the most renowned music venues in the country, hosting big-name musical acts of all genres. Located in the heart of downtown Nashville, after you’ve taken their daytime tour, snag tickets to a show in the evening.

The Grand Ole Opry, the country’s longest-running radio show that is celebrating 100 years this year, still puts on live shows three nights a week. After your tour, attend the show that still takes place three nights a week as a live radio show, just like it has for a century. You’ll hear a dozen performers in one show, from country music greats to newcomers on the scene.

Who is Athena? We're so glad you asked. Athena Parthenos, the goddess of wisdom, stands 42 feet tall inside the Parthenon at Centennial Park. She is the tallest indoor sculpture in the Western World and was created by local artist Alan Lequire (whose studio is just down the road and open to the public.) The Parthenon is the world’s only full-scale replica of the ancient Parthenon in Athens. Initially built for the 1897 Centennial Exposition to celebrate Tennessee's 100th anniversary, it was designed to reflect Nashville's intellectual and cultural growth which had earned the city the nickname "Athens of the South." After you tour the Parthenon, enjoy a stroll through Centennial Park. Smack in the middle of downtown, the 132-acre park hosts several festivals throughout the year and is a community gem that includes gardens, a pond, and a large amphitheater.

Of course, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is a must-do on everyone’s list, and for good reason. Offering a deep dive into country music’s rich history with its impressive collection of memorabilia and interactive exhibits, the museum guides visitors through the evolution of country music, highlighting its cultural significance and influence on other musical genres. The heart of the museum is the Hall of Fame Rotunda, where all members of the Country Music Hall of Fame are honored. Designed to symbolize the unity and timelessness of country music, the rotunda evokes a sense of reverence and sacredness where visitors instinctively know not to speak above a whisper as a sign of respect.

Nashville songwriters are the backbone of Nashville’s music scene. While they typically work behind the scenes, witnessing them perform their own songs is a special experience you won’t want to miss. The Bluebird Cafe is the ultimate destination for songwriters, offering an intimate “in the round” setting where they showcase their original music each night. You can also catch incredible songwriting talent at venues like The Listening Room Café and 3rd & Lindsley.

Nashville’s booming art scene may come as a surprise to first-time visitors, but as a city that fosters creativity of all kinds, Nashville has become an art destination of depth and diversity. The heart of the city’s art scene is the Frist Art Museum housed in a beautiful 1930s Art Deco building downtown. The Frist does not have a permanent collection but instead curates and hosts a diverse lineup of exhibitions, ranging from classical and contemporary art to photography and sculpture. While you’re there, pop into Frist ArtQuest, an interactive space designed for kids, families, and art lovers of all ages to create your own piece of art. Other art hubs include OZ Arts Nashville and the Wedgewood-Houston district, as well as Cheekwood Estate & Gardens. Attend one of the city’s monthly Art Crawls, where you can explore multiple galleries in one evening. With its ever-evolving art scene, Nashville provides an enriching cultural experience that is a must for anyone visiting the city.

Not the emotional kind of tears, more the “my mouth is burning but I have to hold it together” kind of tears that you get when you bite into Nashville’s famous hot chicken. This bold, crispy, and flavor-packed dish has been a Nashville staple for generations. For the real deal, visit Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack, the legendary birthplace of this spicy favorite. Other top spots to try include Hattie B’s, Party Fowl, and Pepperfire Hot Chicken, though nearly every restaurant in town puts its own spin on this classic.

Step back in time at Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage, just outside Nashville, where you can explore the former estate of the seventh President of the United States. The plantation offers guided tours of Jackson’s mansion, gardens, and grounds, as well as Jackson’s tomb. The tour provides an in-depth look at the life, political career, and legacy of one of the most controversial and influential figures in American history.

The Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum celebrates the legendary musicians who have shaped the sound of popular music across all genres. Located in the iconic Nashville Municipal Auditorium, the museum offers fascinating exhibits on stars ranging from Hank Williams, Sr. to the Red Hot Chili Peppers, showcasing their contributions to the world of music. A short walk away, the Johnny Cash Museum immerses visitors in the life and legacy of the "Man in Black," with an extensive collection of memorabilia that spans his early years to his lasting influence on both country and rock music. Just around the corner, the Patsy Cline Museum honors one of country music’s most beloved voices, offering an intimate look at Cline’s life, career, and the personal story behind her enduring music.

Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park is a scenic and historical park in downtown Nashville, sitting at the base of the Tennessee State Capitol. Spanning 19 acres, this park offers stunning views of the city skyline. Along the path, there is a 1,400 ft. granite wall detailing significant events in Tennessee’s history, a splash fountain representing Tennessee’s major rivers, a WWII Memorial, and the Carillon Bell Tower consisting of 95 bells that chime every hour to Tennessee-themed music. Across the street is Nashville’s Farmers' Market, with a food court of regional and international restaurants as well as local products and artisan goods.

You’ll feel like a local when you pony up to the bar at Robert’s Western World for their famous “recession special,” which includes a bologna sandwich, chips, a moon pie, and pbr. While you’re there, take a swing around their dance floor before you hit some of the other famous honky tonks on Lower Broadway, aka Honky Tonk Highway. From staples like Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge to newer spots like Garth Brooks’ Friends in Low Places, there’s a reason Lower Broadway is world-famous! Great live music is playing all day, every day, with no cover charge. Be sure to support these local musicians and drop a little something in the tip jar on your way out.